Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp sits approximately 30 miles northeast of Gulfport in Mississippi's pine forests. The area offers primitive camping options with basic amenities in a natural setting. Summer temperatures average 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop to the 40s.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The surrounding De Soto National Forest provides miles of trails suitable for equestrian activities. Flint Creek Waterpark, located nearby, offers "swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, and small playground available" according to Jaynia P., making it an alternative for campers seeking more recreational variety.
Fishing access: Campers can find water access points throughout the region. At Flint Creek Waterpark, site 141 offers "a beautiful view of the water where you could fish," as noted by Johnnie S. The reservoir provides various fishing spots accessible from multiple camping areas.
Wildlife observation: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife populations. Hannah L. from Flint Creek Waterpark reports they "encountered coyote, deer, and lots of talkative geese, so be prepared for some wildlife interaction" during their stay.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: The pine forest canopy provides relief from summer heat. At Creekside Farm Co., Jamie B. describes the setting as "Country, beginning of a bayou (like a creek), pups, chickens, ducks, outdoor shower and loo (both with privacy), and each tent site has fire pit/picnic table, cleared ground for setup."
Peace and quiet: The secluded nature of horse campgrounds appeals to those seeking tranquility. Alicia L. notes that Creekside Farm Co. "limit the number of campers so this really does feel like primitive camping in the woods," creating a more isolated experience.
Water features: Creeks and water access points enhance the camping experience. Taylor C. mentions at Creekside Farm: "We had direct access to the creek. The bathroom, sink, grill, and shower were just a quick walk up the hill."
What you should know
Equestrian-focused facilities: Most horse campgrounds prioritize equestrian needs over general camping amenities. Sam O. notes about Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp: "Utilities are primitive but expected for a free campground. Watch where you step! Lots of horse poop."
Limited amenities: Most equestrian campgrounds offer minimal services. Bathhouses at Flint Creek "need updated" according to Kyliea Walker W., who adds "Lots of shade and trees. Bring bug spray."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping conditions significantly. At Flint Creek during October, Greg H. reports "We stayed a week in October & enjoyed it. A lot of the sites were decorating for Halloween. Att service was good."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Limited organized activities means families should plan their own recreation. J K. notes about Flint Creek Waterpark: "The water park has a ton of slides and will keep kids young and old entertained sliding down the hill into the lake."
Consider amenity levels: Some sites provide better family infrastructure. Ashlyn B. from Clearwater RV Park mentions: "I wish there would have been a playground in the campground, but I understand they typically have snowbirds and not a lot of young couples with kids... There is also a family dollar/dollar tree and a dollar general down the road which was about less then 4-5 mins away."
Expect wildlife encounters: Children should be supervised due to natural wildlife presence. Hannah L. reports encountering "coyote, deer, and lots of talkative geese" during their stay at Flint Creek, making wildlife education important for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. Johnnie S. notes about Flint Creek: "The only issue I had with the spots were they were all uneven, but somehow I was able to level my 37' travel trailer on the first try without any leveling aids."
Water access considerations: RVers should note water hookup peculiarities. Johnnie S. mentioned at Flint Creek: "The only thing I had negative review of was how low the water spigot was in the ground."
Seasonal crowd patterns: Off-season camping provides more space. Johnnie S. says of their December trip to Flint Creek: "This spot was so quiet and peaceful, no road noise was heard the entire 3 days. There were a few other campers in neighboring spots but the rest of the area was sparsely packed."
